The Donkeys of the Heart, Inc

All the children enrolled in our adaptive riding program develop a deeper connection with their donkey partners. Each session, they learn more about equines through hands-on experience. They practice grooming, checking for any wounds, and understanding donkey body language. They also carry and learn the names of their saddle and tack. In addition, they gain valuable skills such as monitoring vitals, proper feeding, lunging, and working with long reins. Every session is carefully adapted to meet the needs of each child or adolescent, ensuring a meaningful and empowering experience. This little girl is working with Guillermo who has Sticky Stifle. Guillermo must practice different exercises to keep him healthy. She learns about taking care of a donkey. These activities help the children to become a true rider. They develop: attention, listening, communication etc We are always looking to welcome new participants who can benefit from our unique program! If you know a child or adolescent who would thrive in this environment, reach out to us. As a nonprofit, we rely on donations to continue offering these life-changing experiences. If you'd like to support our work, please consider making a contribution. Every donation helps us provide care for our donkeys and create a safe, enriching space for children in need. ?? Contact us to learn more about enrollment. ?? Donate today to help us continue our mission: https://lnkd.in/gXjaDpZ3 #equineassistedservices #donkey #adaptiveriding #therapeuticriding #donate #thedonkeysoftheheart

Rider’s seat. Balance is what will define your ability to use your body. For the children and adolescents I work with finding their balance is difficult. Their physical difficulties is part of their mental health challenges. Some sources teach us that a “chair seat” is the result of a pelvis in posterior pelvic tilt (left) but in women especially, this is rarely the case! Usually the pelvic angle is fine, but the hip angle is closed, giving the “chair seat” appearance.?In this case, the answer is NOT to tip your pelvis forward!! The fix is to open the hip.?(The “up and open” seat exercise is great for this!) https://lnkd.in/gVjgeuyY #mentalhealth #donkey #adaptiveriding #therapeuticriding #equineassistedlearning

When Zeb has a new friend. S. came for the first time at the barn. All the donkeys went to greet her, and a magical connection happened with Zeb. Donkeys are so wonderful, so gentle. https://lnkd.in/g_dKJhpf #equineassitedservice #donkey #mentalhealth #children#adolescents #therapeuticriding #adaptiveriding #equineassistedlearning

When I receive the testimony of the children's parents, all the work behind the stage is rewarding. A Truly Exceptional Experience with Sophie Rainer and The Donkeys of the Heart I cannot speak highly enough about the transformative impact Sophie Ranier and The Donkeys of the Heart have had on my 11-year-old son, who has autism, sensory challenges, speech, and neurological disabilities. Sophie is an incredibly patient, kind, and knowledgeable teacher who has an exceptional understanding of equine therapy, particularly as it relates to donkeys, and how they can support children with disabilities. What stands out the most about Sophie is her ability to focus on and nurture my son’s core strengths. She sees nuances in his behavior and responses that even I, his mother, sometimes miss. This deep level of understanding, combined with her expertise, has made her a crucial part of his overall therapy plan. Sophie’s approach not only complements the other therapies my son is receiving, but enhances them in ways that are tangible and meaningful. The Donkeys of the Heart offers a wonderful, safe, and supportive environment for children. It’s an ideal setting for any child who loves animals or may have hesitations toward larger animals like donkeys and horses. Sophie’s calm, empathetic guidance and the calming presence of the donkeys create a truly unique therapeutic experience. In summary, Sophie Rainer and The Donkeys of the Heart provide an invaluable service to children with a variety of needs. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to any family seeking a compassionate and effective therapeutic experience for their child. https://lnkd.in/dzvBxkX #equineassistedservices #donkey #adaptiveriding #therapeuticriding #equineassistedlearning

A PATH. "A path is the memory that the earth keeps men. Rather than made for walking, he's made for walkers. Throughout the universe, travelers and their donkeys weigh little, they pass by; yet, their splits bend the grass, their strides polish the clay, their swift feet shape a cradle. The infant eventually digs his mark. " ( Heaven's Gate - Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt ) https://lnkd.in/gVjgeuyY #mentalhealth #donkey #equineassistedservices #equineassistedlearning #adaptiveriding #growth

Working with donkeys to support children and adolescents facing mental health challenges is rare in the U.S.—and that makes it both rewarding and challenging. Every day, I strive to demonstrate just how incredible these gentle animals are in helping those in need. And when a mom or dad sends me a heartfelt review, it fuels my determination even more. Donkeys may be underestimated, but their impact is undeniable. ???? A Heartfelt Thank You to The Donkeys of the Heart Our family has been blessed to be a part of The Donkeys of the Heart riding program for over a year, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. My son, who is autistic, has truly blossomed during his time with the donkeys. Not only does he love helping care for them, but riding his donkey, Zeb, has become something he looks forward to every week. The program has been so much more than just riding—it's been a journey of growth for him. We've watched him become more social, building a connection with his trainer, and gaining a sense of confidence and independence that carries over into other areas of his life. The guidance and support he’s received from the staff have been invaluable, and the joy he gets from working with the donkeys is something we will forever cherish. This program is donation-based, and it’s clear how much heart and soul is poured into it. They truly need all the support they can get, and I urge anyone looking for a meaningful, life-changing experience for their child or loved one to consider joining this amazing community. Thank you to everyone at The Donkeys of the Heart for everything you’ve done for our family! - Kasey and Kyler https://lnkd.in/dzvBxkX #EquineAssistedLearning #DonkeysHelpingKids #MentalHealthAwareness #adaptiveriding

Meet Marcus Schwartz – A Dedicated Young Volunteer! For nearly two years, 17-year-old Marcus Schwartz has been a committed volunteer at?The Donkeys of the Heart. Punctual, reliable, and always bringing a positive attitude, Marcus embodies the true spirit of dedication. Yesterday, on his?Saturday morning, he showed up at the barn to meet another volunteer and ended up helping with what we jokingly call?"Men's Work!"?I teased him, saying,?"You might stop coming at 7 AM on weekends if you realize there’s always work to be done!"? But Marcus had a great time—and so did we! If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, we’d love to have you join our volunteer team. We have opportunities that match different skills and experiences! ???Contact us to learn more! #Volunteering #MakingADifference #DonkeyLove #JoinOurTeam #CommunitySupport https://lnkd.in/gVjgeuyY

D. had his first lesson working with long reins. It is an excellent exercise for the children to understand what means a "Soft Hand". There are more benefits to work with long reins. Most of my students will practice soon. #equineassistedservices #adaptiveriding #equineassistedlearning #donkey #longreins https://lnkd.in/gVjgeuyY

Yesterday Katie Stearns, Hilda Huntress, myself and the wonderful Guillermo were at PBS studio. All my gratitude to Lisa Schram for letting us using her trailer. Marcus Schwartz, Anna Britt, who took great care of the donkeys in the evening. Thank you to Robin Craik, Kelly McCarthy, Hilda Moye. A lot of gratitude to my small team and the Donkeys who allow our nonprofit to provide great programs to children and adolescents. https://lnkd.in/gkwr-HM9 https://lnkd.in/gVjgeuyY #donkey #adaptiveriding #equineassistedservices #equineassistedlearning #cavecreekarizona #volunteer #donate